For conspicuous
gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. On 13
October 1943, when the drive across the Volturno River began, Capt. Olson and his company
spearheaded the advance of the regiment through 30 miles of mountainous enemy territory in
13 days. Placing himself at the head of his men, Capt. Olson waded into the chest-deep
water of the raging Volturno River and despite pointblank machine-gun fire aimed directly
at him made his way to the opposite bank and threw 2 handgrenades into the gun position,
killing the crew. When an enemy machinegun 150 yards distant opened fire on his company,
Capt. Olson advanced upon the position in a slow, deliberate walk. Although 5 German
soldiers threw handgrenades at him from a range of 5 yards, Capt. Olson dispatched them
all, picked up a machine pistol and continued toward the enemy. Advancing to within 15
yards of the position he shot it out with the foe, killing 9 and seizing the post.
Throughout the next 13 days Capt. Olson led combat patrols, acted as company No. 1 scout
and maintained unbroken contact with the enemy. On 27 October 1943, Capt. Olson conducted
a platoon in attack on a strongpoint, crawling to within 25 yards of the enemy and then
charging the position. Despite continuous machinegun fire which barely missed him, Capt.
Olson made his way to the gun and killed the crew with his pistol. When the men saw their
leader make this desperate attack they followed him and overran the position. Continuing
the advance, Capt. Olson led his company to the next objective at the summit of Monte San
Nicola. Although the company to his right was forced to take cover from the furious
automatic and small arms fire, which was directed upon him and his men with equal
intensity, Capt. Olson waved his company into a skirmish line and despite the fire of a
machinegun which singled him out as its sole target led the assault which drove the enemy
away. While making a reconnaissance for defensive positions, Capt. Olson was fatally
wounded. Ignoring his severe pain, this intrepid officer completed his reconnaissance,
supervised the location of his men in the best defense positions, refused medical aid
until all of his men had been cared for, and died as he was being carried down the
mountain.

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